Iceland records first confirmed sighting of wild mosquitoes
Three *Culiseta annulata* mosquitoes were discovered near Reykjavik, ending Iceland's status as one of the world's few naturally mosquito-free zones.
October 23, 2025 - 10:27 AM ET • 2 min read
Iceland has recorded the presence of wild mosquitoes within its borders for the first time, according to confirmation provided by the Natural Science Institute of Iceland this week. The discovery of three specimens near the capital, Reykjavik, ends the Nordic nation's long-held distinction as one of the world's few places naturally free of the insect.
The insects were identified as Culiseta annulata, a species known for its ability to survive winter. Two females and one male were collected in Kjós, a glacial valley located approximately 20 miles from Reykjavik. The discovery was confirmed by the institute on Monday.
The mosquitoes were found by Björn Hjaltason, an insect enthusiast, who encountered the specimens over several nights last week. The insects were spotted in a residential backyard while Mr. Hjaltason was attempting to attract moths.
Mr. Hjaltason utilized a method known as "wine roping," which involves dipping fabric strips or ropes into a solution of heated, sugared wine and hanging them outside as a lure. He noticed an unusual bug on the red wine ribbon and captured the specimens, sending them to experts for identification.
MatthÃas Alfreðsson, an entomologist at the Natural Science Institute of Iceland, confirmed the identification of the insects. The specimens were collected from the property in Kjós, located southwest of the capital.
Iceland has historically been one of the only places on Earth without a confirmed sighting of wild mosquitoes, a status previously attributed largely to its cold climate. Prior to this finding, Antarctica was cited as the only other recorded mosquito-free zone globally.
The discovery follows a period of record-breaking heat experienced in Iceland this spring. The Natural Science Institute of Iceland noted that the Culiseta annulata species is one of the few that can successfully overwinter, suggesting the species may be able to withstand the Icelandic climate.
While the insects may have arrived by international freight, the institute noted that the discovery is part of a trend of new insect species being found in Iceland in recent years, a phenomenon linked to both the growth of international transportation and a warming climate. Previous reports of mosquitoes found in Iceland were limited to specimens discovered inside airplanes.